Music cabinet and piano with a relic of St Cecilia by Antoine Bord

Music cabinet and piano with a relic of St Cecilia 1858 - 1859

antoinebord's Profile Picture

antoinebord

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aged paper

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toned paper

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pottery

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stoneware

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warm toned

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warm palette

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warm-toned

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neutral brown palette

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cardboard

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neutral shade

This intricately carved piano, created by Antoine Bord between 1858 and 1859, is a striking example of 19th century French craftsmanship. The instrument features a series of painted panels depicting scenes from the life of Saint Cecilia, patron saint of music, adorning the upper portion. A relic of the saint is incorporated within the design, adding religious significance to the piece. The carved details on the legs and top of the piano are reminiscent of Gothic architecture, further enhancing the artistic and spiritual impact of this unique piece. The work stands at an impressive 165.2 cm tall, 139.8 cm wide, and 65 cm deep.

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rijksmuseum's Profile Picture
rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

Pierre Cuypers, the Rijksmuseum architect, designed these pieces of furniture as engagement and wedding presents for his second wife. The Gothic Revival style and the reliquary on the piano express their deep-rooted Catholicism. The images on the piano case – the Annunciation and scenes from the life of St Cecilia, patron saint of music – allude to the difficult choice of Cuypers’ wife between marriage and a musical career.

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